Former PGMOL chief and retired referee Keith Hackett has made his feelings known about Liverpool’s contentious equalising goal against Crystal Palace in their recent Premier League clash.
In a highly anticipated match at Selhurst Park, Liverpool, led by manager Oliver Glasner, came up against a formidable Crystal Palace side riding a 17-game unbeaten streak. Despite Liverpool’s late dramatic equaliser from Federico Chiesa, it was Palace who emerged victorious when substitute Eddie Nketiah scored a last-minute winner in the 97th minute.
The spotlight, however, has been on Liverpool’s equalising goal, with Hackett pointing out a potential handball by Mohamed Salah in the build-up. The VAR reviewed the incident but ultimately did not overturn the on-field decision. Hackett expressed his disbelief, stating that the video evidence clearly showed a deliberate handball by Salah and that the correct decision should have been made.
Palace’s victory was well-deserved, and Hackett emphasized the injustice that would have occurred had the match ended in a draw due to Liverpool’s controversial goal. Despite this setback, Liverpool will be looking to bounce back quickly, especially considering their impressive performances earlier in the season.
Overall, Hackett’s critique highlights the need for consistency and accuracy in officiating decisions, particularly in high-stakes matches like the one between Liverpool and Crystal Palace.
